Motorway Police Apprehend Suspected Highway Robbers in Gujjar Khan Area
The National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP) made a significant breakthrough on Sunday by arresting a group of individuals suspected of highway robbery. The operation led to the recovery of a snatched mini-truck along with several cattle, which were later handed over to the Jhelum police for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Details of the Robbery Incident
According to reliable sources, the incident occurred early Sunday morning when Muhammad Afzal, a resident of Dhoke Rajoo in Jhelum, and his nephew were transporting approximately half a dozen cattle to sell at Kunjaah Mandi in the Gujrat area. As they reached a deserted stretch in the Chotala area, a gang of armed men intercepted their mini-truck.
The robbers allegedly seized over Rs200,000 in cash, mobile phones, and the loaded vehicle. The victims were tied with ropes and abandoned in a nearby jungle before the suspects fled with the mini-truck. This brazen act has highlighted ongoing security concerns on rural highways.
Police Response and Arrest
Sources indicate that the suspects traveled through the jurisdictions of Chotala, Pind Dadan Khan, and Lillah police stations before entering the motorway. Authorities were alerted about the incident through a 15 Police hotline, prompting immediate action.
Near Khanqah Dogran, the motorway police stopped the vehicle during a routine check. The driver and his accomplices failed to provide a satisfactory explanation, leading to their detention. Upon inspection, the police recovered the stolen truck along with the cattle and subsequently arrested the suspects.
Involvement of a Police Official
Police sources in Jhelum have confirmed the incident and revealed that initial investigations suggest the involvement of a head constable named Jahangir, who is posted in Rawalpindi. He is believed to be the mastermind behind the gang, raising serious questions about internal corruption within law enforcement agencies.
Further investigation is currently underway to uncover all details and ensure justice is served. The alleged involvement of a police official has sparked concerns among local residents, who are urging the Inspector General of Punjab Police to take strict notice of the matter.
Community Concerns and Official Silence
The incident, coupled with the suspected police complicity, has alarmed residents in the region, calling for enhanced security measures and accountability. Multiple attempts were made to contact the Station House Officer of Chotala Police, where the suspects were handed over by NH&MP, but no response was received by the time of reporting.
This case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating highway crimes and the need for robust oversight to prevent such incidents in the future.
